Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child's ability to communicate, interact socially, and engage in typical play. While autism is diagnosed around the age of 2 or 3, early signs may appear much sooner.
Autism is primarily marked by two key challenges; difficulty in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviours, says Dr Sindhu D M, Consultant Neurologist and Epileptologist, Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram, Bengaluru. “Children with autism may struggle with making eye contact, using facial expressions appropriately, and understanding social cues. They may also engage in repetitive activities such as rocking back and forth, lining up objects, or fixating on a specific part of a toy rather than playing with it as intended,” she says.
Additionally, many autistic children have sensory sensitivities, reacting strongly to sounds, textures, or smells. “Parents should pay attention to these behavioural patterns, especially if they notice delays in communication or a lack of typical social responses. The earlier these signs are detected, the sooner a child can receive the support they need,” advises Dr Sindhu.
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The first few years of life are crucial for brain development, and recognising autism early allows for timely intervention strategies such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioural support. Autistic children often have delayed language milestones, show reduced facial expressions, or fail to respond when their name is called.
Some may even lose previously acquired skills, a phenomenon known as regression. “A child who was babbling or making gestures but suddenly stops should be evaluated immediately,” says Dr. Sindhu. Since every child develops at their own pace, occasional delays may not always indicate autism, but consistent patterns of atypical behavior should not be ignored.
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Parents should watch out for these 6 early signs of autism in toddlers, suggests Dr Sindhu:
- Lack of eye contact: Babies typically start making eye contact at around 2-3 months. Autistic children, however, may avoid looking at people’s faces and focus more on objects.
- Lack of pointing or gesturing: Most babies learn to point at objects before they start speaking. Autistic children may not follow a pointed finger or use common gestures like waving or raising their arms to be picked up.
- Delayed language development: Many autistic children have delayed speech and may not babble by 6 months or use single words by 12-18 months. Some may repeat words or phrases without understanding them.
- Repetitive behaviours: Actions such as hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, or head-banging can be signs of autism, especially if they occur frequently or in response to stress or excitement.
- Regression of skills: A child who was previously saying words, responding to their name, or making eye contact but suddenly stops may be showing an early sign of autism.
- Lack of interest in social interaction: Autistic children may prefer playing alone rather than engaging with caregivers or peers. They might not show interest in typical social games like peek-a-boo.
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